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Buyer is "Deceased" / Appeal Denied
I LOVE Ebay. Have always had a great experience with selling and with their support teams. In 11 years, I've only had a few issues. Nothing significant.
I recently sold a vintage tablecloth/napkin set. Buyer received the item the next day. Days later she claims the tablecloth has a stain that wasn't pictured in the listing and that she doesn't think she'll be able to get it out. Not recalling any damage, I ask for photos so that she can show me what she's referring to. A week passes and I get image of cloth with a kool-aid type stain. She says she likes the tablecloth but isn't sure she'll be able to get that stain out. Even though, I'm fairly certain that she added that stain, I offered a partial refund or return of item. No word. Weeks pass, and she opens a return to seller. She receives a full refund, and I receive nothing. The item was never returned. In reply to my messages, she says oh, I didn't realize the package hasn't been sent. 2 months later, nothing. Ebay has closed the case and won't let me contact them other than by email. I've been one of their pro sellers for many years. Worked hard to keep my standing and give my best to my buyers.
I'm failing to understand how Ebay's system is protecting the seller. With a little online detective work, I discovered that my buyer is "deceased", having passed in 2009. A couple use her account. I believe they're relations, but not the actual person. Ebay should upgrade their buyer/seller verification system.
I'm grateful this was not a more valuable item, as I see other sellers have suffered worse scenarios. I'm sharing this story because I believe sellers will need to do their own due diligence with their buyers in advance of shipping. Unfortunately, we're seeing less penalties for crimes these days, and criminals are getting a free pass.
